Kanagawa Prefecture Complete Guide: Thorough Explanation from Geography, History, and Culture to Municipalities
Kanagawa Prefecture is located in the Kanto region of Japan and boasts the second-largest population in the nation with approximately 9.2 million people. The prefectural capital is Yokohama City, and it is known as the only prefecture with three designated cities: Yokohama City, Kawasaki City, and Sagamihara City. This article provides detailed explanations of Kanagawa Prefecture’s geography, history, economy, culture, and all municipalities.
Overview of Kanagawa Prefecture
Kanagawa Prefecture is located in a corner of the Tokyo metropolitan area, bordered by Tokyo to the north and Yamanashi and Shizuoka prefectures to the west. It faces Tokyo Bay to the east and Sagami Bay to the south, blessed with a warm climate and rich natural environment. With an area of approximately 2,416 square kilometers, it ranks third in population density among prefectures, after Tokyo and Osaka.
The prefecture’s gross domestic product ranks fourth after Tokyo, Osaka, and Aichi, playing an important role in Japan’s economy. Industry is thriving, particularly the Keihin Industrial Zone, which has developed as a representative industrial area of Japan.
Geography of Kanagawa Prefecture
Topography and Natural Environment
Kanagawa Prefecture’s topography is diverse. The eastern part features plains facing Tokyo Bay where urban areas such as Yokohama City and Kawasaki City have developed. The central part has the Sagami Plain where cities like Atsugi and Ebina are located. The western part features mountainous areas including the Tanzawa and Hakone mountains, preserving abundant natural environment.
The coastline differs significantly between the Tokyo Bay side and the Sagami Bay side. The Tokyo Bay side has developed industrial zones and port facilities, while the Sagami Bay side continues with beautiful coastlines known as the Shonan area. Enoshima, Zushi, and Hayama are popular tourist spots.
Major Rivers and Water Systems
Many rivers flow through Kanagawa Prefecture. Major rivers include the Sagami River, Sakawa River, and Tamagawa River. The Sagami River is the largest river in the prefecture, flowing from Yamanashi Prefecture and emptying into Sagami Bay. The Tamagawa River flows along the border with Tokyo and serves as a water source for Kawasaki City.
Climate
Kanagawa Prefecture belongs to the warm Pacific-side climate zone. It is relatively warm throughout the year, characterized by hot and humid summers and warm and dry winters. However, mountainous areas like Hakone have higher elevations, resulting in lower temperatures than the plains, with snow visible in winter.
History of Kanagawa Prefecture
From Ancient Times to the Middle Ages
Evidence of human habitation in the Kanagawa region exists from ancient times. In ancient times, the region was divided into Musashi Province and Sagami Province, with the area around present-day Kanagawa Ward in Yokohama City belonging to Kuraki District in Musashi Province. The place name “Kanagawa” is recorded in a document from 1266 (Bun’ei 3rd year) housed at Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine as “Musashi Province’s Inome and Kanagawa districts.” “Kanagawa” was also written as Kanname River or Kamuname River, and served as an important hub for land and maritime transportation from ancient times.
During the Kamakura period, Kamakura became the seat of the shogunate and flourished as a center of politics and culture. With the establishment of the Kamakura shogunate, the area around Kamakura became the stage for samurai culture, and many temples and shrines were built. Numerous historical structures remain in Kamakura today and attract visitors as a tourist destination.
Edo Period
During the Edo period, post towns on the Tokaido route such as Kanagawa-shuku, Hodogaya-shuku, Totsuka-shuku, Fujisawa-shuku, Hiratsuka-shuku, Oiso-shuku, and Odawara-shuku flourished. These post towns functioned as important relay points connecting Edo and Kyoto, bustling with many travelers.
Odawara developed as the castle town of Odawara Domain, and Hakone was an important strategic point where a barrier station was established. Yokosuka was considered important as a defensive position for Edo Bay.
From the Late Edo Period to the Meiji Restoration
During the late Edo period, the Kanagawa region became an important stage in Japan’s opening to foreign countries. Yokohama Port opened in 1859 (Ansei 6th year), initiating foreign trade. Yokohama developed rapidly and played a major role in Japan’s modernization as a window to Western culture.
With the Abolition of the Han System and Establishment of Prefectures in 1871 (Meiji 4th year), the prototype of present-day Kanagawa Prefecture was formed. Initially divided into multiple prefectures, the current boundaries of Kanagawa Prefecture were finalized through consolidations.
Modern to Contemporary Times
After the Meiji period, trade centered on Yokohama Port developed, and the Keihin Industrial Zone was formed. The Great Kanto Earthquake in 1923 (Taisho 12th year) caused severe damage, but recovery was achieved.
During World War II, significant damage occurred from bombing such as the Great Yokohama Air Raid, but rapid reconstruction followed after the war. During the high economic growth period, population increased sharply. Currently, while serving as a bedroom community for Tokyo, Kanagawa Prefecture continues to develop its own industries and culture.
Population of Kanagawa Prefecture
Kanagawa Prefecture has a population of approximately 9.2 million, ranking second nationally after Tokyo. Its population density is approximately 3,800 people per square kilometer, ranking third after Tokyo and Osaka.
Population Distribution
Population is concentrated in the eastern part of the prefecture, particularly in Yokohama City and Kawasaki City, which together account for approximately 60% of the prefecture’s population. Yokohama City has a population of approximately 3.77 million, while Kawasaki City has approximately 1.54 million. Sagamihara City, also a designated city, has a population of approximately 720,000.
The Shonan area cities of Fujisawa, Chigasaki, and Hiratsuka also have large populations, each with over 200,000 residents. Conversely, population density is lower in the mountainous western areas and rural districts.
Population Dynamics
Kanagawa Prefecture has experienced consistent population growth since World War II, though the growth rate has recently slowed. Many commute to central Tokyo, with the daytime population being less than the resident population. However, in urban areas such as central Yokohama and Kawasaki, the daytime population increases in some areas.
Aging is also progressing, with the proportion of residents aged 65 and above increasing annually. Meanwhile, continued influx of younger generations creates a society where diverse age groups coexist.
Regional Divisions of Kanagawa Prefecture
Kanagawa Prefecture is divided into several regions based on geographical and cultural characteristics.
Yokohama and Kawasaki Region
Located in the eastern part of the prefecture and facing Tokyo Bay, this highly urbanized area centers on Yokohama City and Kawasaki City. Yokohama City consists of 18 wards, each with distinct characteristics such as Yokohama’s Kanagawa Ward, Chuo Ward, and Aoba Ward. Kawasaki City consists of 7 wards, including Tamagawa Ward.
This region forms the core of the Keihin Industrial Zone with thriving manufacturing. Yokohama Port functions as a representative international trade port of Japan.
Shonan Region
This region faces Sagami Bay and includes cities such as Fujisawa, Chigasaki, Hiratsuka, Kamakura, and Zushi. Known nationally as the Shonan area, it is popular for its beautiful coastline, marine sports, and surf culture.
Kamakura City has numerous historical temples and shrines, attracting many tourists as a tourist destination. Enoshima is an iconic symbol of Shonan, drawing visitors year-round.
Central Kanagawa Region
This inland area centers on the Sagami Plain and includes Sagamihara City, Atsugi City, Ebina City, Yamato City, Zama City, and Ayase City. Sagamihara City has developed as a designated city with harmony between rich green environment and urban functions.
Atsugi and Ebina are active in commerce and industry, and have recently become increasingly popular as residential areas.
Miura Peninsula Region
Includes Yokosuka City, Miura City, Hayama Town, and Zushi City. Yokosuka City developed as a naval base and currently hosts Japan Self-Defense Force and U.S. Navy bases. The Miura Peninsula is known for its warm climate, beautiful coastline, and fresh seafood.
Western Kanagawa Region
Includes Odawara City, Minami-Ashigara City, Hakone Town, Yugawara Town, and Manazuru Town. Odawara City is known for the Odawara Castle from the Sengoku period, with historic streets remaining. Hakone is one of Japan’s leading tourist destinations for hot springs, attracting many domestic and international visitors.
Manazuru Town in Ashigara-Shimo District is a small town facing Sagami Bay, known for its beautiful coastline and Manazuru Peninsula.
List of Municipalities in Kanagawa Prefecture
Kanagawa Prefecture comprises 19 cities, 6 towns, and 1 village, for a total of 26 municipalities.
Designated Cities (3 Cities)
- Yokohama City: Prefectural capital with a population of approximately 3.77 million. Comprises 18 wards as Japan’s largest basic self-governing body.
- Kawasaki City: Population of approximately 1.54 million. Comprises 7 wards and is positioned between Tokyo and Yokohama.
- Sagamihara City: Population of approximately 720,000. Comprises 3 wards and is the central city of northern Kanagawa.
General Cities (16 Cities)
- Yokosuka City: Core city of the Miura Peninsula
- Hiratsuka City: Central city of the Shonan region
- Kamakura City: Historic city known as an ancient capital
- Fujisawa City: Central city of the Shonan area
- Odawara City: Central city of western Kanagawa
- Chigasaki City: Shonan residential city
- Zushi City: Residential city on the Miura Peninsula
- Miura City: City at the southern tip of the Miura Peninsula
- Hadano City: Located at the foot of the Tanzawa mountains
- Atsugi City: Commercial and industrial city in central Kanagawa
- Yamato City: Residential city in central Kanagawa
- Isehara City: Temple town of Oyama faith
- Ebina City: Commercial city in central Kanagawa
- Zama City: Residential city in central Kanagawa
- Minami-Ashigara City: City in western Kanagawa
- Ayase City: City in central Kanagawa
Rural Areas (6 Towns and 1 Village)
Koza District
- Samukawa Town (Koza District, Samukawa Town): Located in the lower reaches of the Sagami River
Naka District
- Oiso Town: Birthplace of the Shonan area
- Ninomiya Town: Coastal town facing Sagami Bay
Ashigara-Kami District
- Nakai Town: Town in western Kanagawa
- Oi Town: Town in western Kanagawa
- Matsuda Town: Town in western Kanagawa
- Yamakita Town: Located in the Tanzawa mountains
- Kaisei Town: The prefecture’s smallest town by area
Ashigara-Shimo District
- Hakone Town: One of Japan’s leading hot spring tourist destinations
- Manazuru Town (Ashigara-Shimo District, Manazuru Town): Town on a peninsula jutting into Sagami Bay
- Yugawara Town: Town known for hot springs
Aiko District
- Aikawa Town: Town in central Kanagawa
- Kiyokawa Village: The prefecture’s only village
Prefectural Government of Kanagawa
Prefectural Office and Administrative Organization
The Kanagawa Prefectural Government Office is located in Chuo Ward, Yokohama City. The prefectural governor is elected, with a four-year term. The prefectural assembly comprises 105 members.
The prefectural administrative organization consists of the governor’s departments, board of education, and police headquarters, working to provide services to residents and promote regional development.
Finance
Kanagawa Prefecture’s financial scale ranks high nationally. Main revenue sources include prefectural tax, local allocation tax, and national treasury disbursements. Prefectural tax revenue centers on corporate business tax and personal residents’ tax, with relatively stable tax revenue due to active economic activity.
For expenditures, large budgets are allocated to welfare, education, and civil engineering. Due to the large population, social security-related expenditures account for a substantial proportion.
Economy and Industry of Kanagawa Prefecture
Manufacturing
Kanagawa Prefecture is one of Japan’s leading industrial prefectures. The Keihin Industrial Zone extends along the Tokyo Bay coast with manufacturing concentrated around Kawasaki and Yokohama. Major industries include chemical industry, machinery industry, metal industry, and food industry.
In recent years, cutting-edge technology industries have developed, with many research and development facilities located there. Industrial parks have also formed in inland areas such as Atsugi and Ebina.
Commerce
Large commercial facilities are concentrated in the central areas of Yokohama and Kawasaki. Yokohama Station area, Minato Mirai district, and Kawasaki Station area are among the prefecture’s leading commercial districts.
Large shopping centers are also widely located in suburban areas, with Ebina and Sagamihara drawing shoppers from broader regions.
Agriculture and Fisheries
Despite urbanization, agriculture continues. On the Miura Peninsula, cultivation of vegetables such as cabbage and radish is common. In central Kanagawa, rice cultivation and livestock farming also take place.
In fisheries, Misaki Port (Miura City) is known for tuna landings. Odawara and Nagai ports also operate actively.
Tourism Industry
Tourism is an important industry in Kanagawa Prefecture. Hakone is one of Japan’s leading tourist destinations, visited by approximately 20 million people annually. Kamakura also attracts many tourists seeking historical temples and shrines and beaches.
Yokohama’s Minato Mirai district, Chinatown, and Red Brick Warehouse are also popular tourist spots. The Shonan area bustles with beach swimmers, particularly during summer.
Life in Kanagawa Prefecture
Transportation
Kanagawa Prefecture has well-developed railway networks. JR East lines including the Tokaido Line, Yokosuka Line, Nambu Line, and Sagami Line serve the prefecture, with private railways operated by Tokyu, Keikyu, Odakyu, and Sotetsu.
Expressways are also well-developed, including the Tomei Expressway, New Tomei Expressway, Chuo Expressway, and Tokyo Bay Aqua-Line.
Yokohama and Kawasaki ports function as international trade ports and serve as logistics hubs.
Healthcare and Welfare
Kanagawa Prefecture has many medical institutions with university hospitals and general hospitals located throughout. Welfare facilities adapted for aging population are increasing.
Housing
Many residential areas have been developed as a commuting zone to central Tokyo. Aoba Ward in Yokohama and Tamagawa Ward in Kawasaki are known as popular residential areas. The Shonan area is also popular due to its good residential environment.
Education in Kanagawa Prefecture
Universities and Higher Education Institutions
Kanagawa Prefecture has many universities. Yokohama National University is a national university with faculties of engineering and education. Private universities include Keio University (Hiyoshi and Shonan-Fujisawa campuses), Waseda University (part of Toyama campus), and Meiji University (Ikuta campus).
Other institutions include Yokohama City University, Kanagawa University, Kanto Gakuin University, Tokai University, and Ferris Women’s University, with diverse universities where many students study.
Elementary and Secondary Education
The prefecture has numerous public and private elementary schools, middle schools, and high schools. Educational standards are high, ranking among the top nationally in academic achievement.
Many private junior-senior high schools exist, with Eikoh Gakuen, Seiko Gakuen, and Ferris Women’s Academy being nationally recognized.
Culture of Kanagawa Prefecture
Traditional Culture
Traditions of samurai culture dating from the Kamakura period remain, with traditional events continued at Kamakura temples and shrines. Culture related to the Hojo clan in Odawara and hot spring culture of Hakone are characteristic.
Contemporary Culture
Since its opening, Yokohama has functioned as a center for receiving and transmitting Western culture. Yokohama Chinatown, Japan’s largest Chinatown, serves as a center for disseminating Chinese culture.
Shonan has a rooted culture of surfing and marine sports, forming its unique lifestyle.
Sports
Many professional sports teams exist. Yokohama DeNA BayStars (professional baseball), Yokohama F. Marinos, Kawasaki Frontale, and Shonan Bellmare (J.League) operate and are beloved by residents.
Etymology of Kanagawa Prefecture
Several theories exist regarding the origin of the name “Kanagawa.” The most widely accepted theory attributes it to the river (Kanagawa River) that once flowed through present-day Kanagawa Ward in Yokohama City. This river was also written as “Kamuname River” or “Kanname River.”
It is recorded in a 1266 (Bun’ei 3rd year) document as “Musashi Province’s Inome and Kanagawa districts,” showing this region was called “Kanagawa” from ancient times. The name of this region, which flourished as a strategic point for land and maritime transportation, was adopted as the prefectural name during the Meiji period.
Difficult-to-Read Place Names in Kanagawa Prefecture
Kanagawa Prefecture has numerous difficult-to-read place names.
- Tanmachi (反町): Kanagawa Ward, Yokohama City. Known for Keikyu Line’s “Tanmachi Station”
- Manazuru (真鶴): Ashigara-Shimo District, Manazuru Town. Easily misread as “Shinkaku”
- Zengyo (善行): Place name in Fujisawa City
- Kugenuma (鵠沼): Place name in Fujisawa City
- Zoshiki (雑色): Place name in Kawasaki City (also exists in Ota Ward, Tokyo)
These place names derive from local history and legends, forming the identity of their communities.
Conclusion
Kanagawa Prefecture, with Japan’s second-largest population, plays an important role in the nation’s economy, culture, and education. Possessing three designated cities of Yokohama, Kawasaki, and Sagamihara, it has highly urbanized areas coexisting with rich natural environments.
From ancient times through the present, Kanagawa Prefecture has been a stage for Japanese history, possessing unique charm blending internationalism since its opening with traditional culture. The coastal culture of Shonan, historical heritage of Kamakura, hot spring tourism of Hakone, and international functions of Yokohama exemplify the prefecture’s diverse character.
With thriving manufacturing, commerce, and tourism industries, the prefecture’s gross domestic product ranks fourth nationally. Meanwhile, agriculture on the Miura Peninsula and fisheries in Sagami Bay support the regional economy.
Well-developed transportation networks and good access to central Tokyo make it a popular place to live. Educational institutions are fully equipped with many universities located throughout.
Kanagawa Prefecture, with harmony between urban convenience and natural richness, history and contemporary culture, will continue developing as a fascinating prefecture.
